The Independent Bakers Association will hold its 39th Annual IBA Convention June 18-19 at the Washington Court Hotel in Washington, D.C.

The convention will feature speakers from the White House, federal agencies, Congress and the best of the private sector based in Washington. Experts will lead sessions on such topics as family business, healthcare, energy and taxes. Allied members will briefly showcase new products and services at the beginning of each session.

New to this year’s convention are panel discussions, including a two-sided debate on the affects of the new healthcare regulations on businesses and a consultation about bakery opportunities in school breakfast and lunch programs.

The event also will enable IBA members to meet with bakers, suppliers and key Washington officials, as well as offer them an opportunity to participate in events unique to the political capitol of the nation.

Social activities at the convention include a spouse program and luncheon; the Young Presidents’ Council Reception on June 18; and the ever-popular Congressional Legislative Awards Reception in the Capitol on June 19, which will be followed by the BakePAC Dinner.

This year’s BakePAC Dinner speakers will be Rich Galen, a columnist, Republican strategist and former press secretary to Vice President Dan Quayle and Speaker of the House Newt Gingerich; and Republication Congressman Bob Goodlatte from Virginia. Galen will talk about the current political climate, while Goodlatte will discuss developments regarding sugar policy, the Farm Bill and immigration reform.

For more information about the convention, visit www.independentbaker.net.